Technically for adults, but content is appropriate for teens. Inspired by Rumpelstiltskin but so much more than your average fairy tale retelling. Epic fantasy world building grounded by the very human struggles of Jewish identity, poverty, and abuse. Multiple narrators add extra dimension to this tale centering on three young women who find the strength to meet extraordinary challenges. The character development is believable--introspective and at times heartwrenching, the plot is mysterious and exciting, and the language is rich and evocative. Highly recommended for teens and adults.

This is an important, significant, and often heartwrenching read about feeling broken, finding a path to healing, and the multiplicity of what we call the truth. A vital read for college-bound high school students. Ages 16+. - Kalee

Maniscalco's protagonist, Audrey Rose, is no hothouse flower. She's an 1880s Nancy Drew with finely-honed forensic abilities, and a scalpel to match. She and fellow intern Thomas Cresswell are made rivals in a highly-selective academy housed in the former castle of Vlad the Impaler. Bizarre murders begin even before their arrival at the school - and continue. As the body count rises, a side benefit is the witty banter of these endangered investigators. Ages 14+. - Rosemary

Alex Rider returns for another action-packed adventure. Anthony Horowitz (Foyle's War, for adult fans) has crafted the perfecdt teenage spy. Alex's world came crashing down in his last book - now he goes to extreme lengths to hopefully put things back together. Ages 10+. - Rosemary

Mystery, history, evil relations and unexpected friends - all combine for an absorbing tale that goes back to the Civil War from current day. May Abbey and Bee have many adventures. Ages 8-12. - Rosemary

After Rebel of the Sands, I eagerly awaited the sequel. Traitor to the Throne exceeded expectations. The imaginative melding of Old West and Middle East provides a fascinating backdrop for more danger, political factions, and shocking surprises. Ages 12+. - Rosemary

Travis has lost his girlfriend, his best friend, and 5 years of his life. That's what returning from the dead can do to you. The decapitated head of a teen near death has been attached to a "healthy" cadaver. Travis is back and determined to restore his life as it was, to the beyond-belief joy of his parents, the horror of many, and the same miserable high school teacher. A "heads up": Noggin has more humor than you'd expect, while tackling weighty subjects. Ages 14+. - Rosemary

The world's greatest game designer has just created the world's most amazing library for his hometown. Now a group of lucky 'contestants' find themselves locked in, with an evening to solve the book-related puzzles and perhaps come out as winners after all. Care to test your skill? Chris Grabenstein's first Mr. Lemoncello book is a blast. Ages 8-12. - Rosemary